Large infrastructure constructions - an integration of archaeogeophysical prospection into the development-led archaeology in the Czech republic
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| Year of publication | 2022 |
| Type | Appeared in Conference without Proceedings |
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| Description | A tight schedule, limited budget and human resources are the main characteristics of large infrastructure construction projects. The application of archaeological prospection methods becomes necessary when planning such projects. Since a non-destructive approach to archaeological excavation is not enshrined in Czech legislation, neither are the methods unified. Estimating the cost of the excavation is usually the first reason for using non-destructive prospecting methods. In combination with GIS analyses, well-established approaches (field surveys, aerial archaeology etc.) will significantly improve the chances of the correct time and cost estimation. However, these methods often require a broader timeframe for their successful implementation, such as suitable vegetation or climatic conditions. Despite the undeniable advantages, the picture provided by these methods is often limited and is also time-consuming. It is usually impossible to systematically survey the entire area; thus, we create blank spots. Since development-led archaeology is usually required to investigate all archaeology due to the threat of destruction. These areas pose a potential risk from both an investor and heritage management perspective. At this stage, usually, archaeogeophysical prospection comes to help. In the infrastructure construction environment, it is mainly magnetometry. Motorized magnetometry systems offer an effective approach to filling the map’s white spots. We did several such geophysical surveys on roads, highways or gas pipelines within the last couple of years. Cooperation with archaeological and heritage management bodies and investors demonstrates the advantages of archaeogeophysical prospection. It also points out the weaknesses of the traditional excavation and prospective method used in development-led archaeology. Our paper will present some infrastructure projects in the Czech Republic and the process leading to archaeological research. |
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